Enforcement of Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters
United Kingdom
07 October 2025
Demonstrating specific strength in the life sciences and tech spheres, Stephenson Harwood is highly regarded for its expertise in pre-seed and series round investments. Kristian Shearsby heads the team, advising investors and companies on financing round, while Malcolm MacDougall routinely handles bolt-on acquisitions and exits. Michelle Gomes is hailed as ‘extremely commercially minded’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Michelle Gomes has shown a deep understanding of the nuances that come with early-stage fundraising. Her advice has been razor-sharp, always ahead of the curve, and grounded in a clear understanding of both our goals and the expectations of venture investors.'
- 'We’ve felt empowered and confident every step of the way. We’re incredibly grateful for their support and could not have asked for a better team.’
‘Michelle Gomes, in particular, has been an absolute force—her brilliance, professionalism, and dedication have been nothing short of extraordinary. She has guided us through the complexities of the pre-seed investment process with the perfect balance of strategic insight and legal precision.'
‘The team is extremely commercially minded and responsive.’
Key clients
- 4Bio Capital
- 500 Global
- Pembroke VCT plc
- Fat32 Limited
- Flarin Holdings Limited
- Protium Green Solutions Limited
- BGF (British Growth Fund)
- Archean Chemical Industries Limited
- Al Shams Investment Limited
- UCB Ventures
- Augmentum Fintech plc
Work highlights
Advised Protium Green Solutions Limited, a green hydrogen energy solutions provider, on its £31m Series B funding round.
Acted for Pembroke VCT plc as it led a highly publicised £5m follow-on round in activewear brand, TALA, alongside other investors including Venrex and Active Partners.
Advised venture fund, 500 Global, for several years in relation to their pre-seed, seed and series round investments in UK based businesses.
Practice head
Kristian Shearsby
Other key lawyers
Malcolm MacDougall; Michelle Gomes; Zoe Yuile; Bryton Chin